The following quote from Plutarch Moralia (refer: [
penelope.uchicago.edu]) details the Egyptian priests dislike of onions.
Quote
Nothing that is irrational or fabulous or prompted by superstition, as some believe, has ever been given a place in their rites, but in them are some things that have moral and practical values, and others that are not without their share in the refinements of history or natural science, as, for example, that which has to do with the onion. FFor the tale that Dictys, the nurseling of Isis, in reaching for a clump of onions, fell into the river and was drowned is extremely incredible. But the priests keep themselves clear of the onion and detest it and are careful to avoid it, because it is the only plant that naturally thrives and flourishes in the waning of the moon. It is suitable for neither fasting nor festival, because in the one case it causes thirst and in the other tears for those who partake of it.
How reliable is Plutarch in this regard? Are there any other references of the Egyptian priests view of onions which corroborate Plutarch?
Thanks,
Brendan